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UVA Health team members, patients and their families, visitors, and more are supported year-round by the often-behind-the-scenes work of Environmental Services (EVS), Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), and Rewards and Recognition (R&R) teams. Now, for the third consecutive year, University Medical Center has hosted a Garden of Appreciation event to express gratitude to those team members who are usually the ones supporting others

Leaders and others served lunch to and mingled with about 100 team members who attended the two-hour event at UVA Health University Medical Center Dining Rooms on April 30.

“It's nice that they do this for us,” says Angie Washington, Food and Nutrition Services, about the annual event. Guests raved about lunch options, from “The mac n’ cheese is delicious!” to “I can’t stop drinking the sweet tea!” 

‘Front and Center’ 

Garden of Appreciation organizers included Office of the CEO of University Medical Center Administrative Fellows Emin Ahsan, MHA; Zachary S. Evans, MS, PMP; and Edie Newman, MHA — and Shenia Thompson, MBA, MSHM, UVA Health University Medical Center interim Chief Operating Officer, Safety and Security Liaison, and Hospitality and Support Services Administrator: “There’s something deeply meaningful about creating a space where the people who are always ‘behind the scenes’ finally get to be front and center.” 

Thompson adds, “The Garden of Appreciation is special to me because it intentionally pauses the pace of the hospital to honor our EVS, FNS, and R&R teams — the individuals who quietly power team member engagement and a positive work experience and are at the center of support here at University Medical Center.” 

She finds that this event matters because “recognition shouldn’t be reserved for those who can attend celebrations — it should reach those who make them possible. By bringing the celebration to them, we’re not just saying ‘Thank you!’ — we’re reinforcing that their work is seen, valued, and essential to the heart of University Medical Center.” 

‘Incredibly Meaningful’ 

“R&R would love to thank all our EVS, Facilities, and Morrison teams for all they do to make it possible to recognize tens of thousands of UVA team members, patients, and families! You’re all the best!” hails George Minor, Specialist, Rewards and Recognition. 

“It’s an honor to them to be recognized for their efforts to support University Medical Center and the patients we all care for,” says Tony Caswell, Resident Regional Director of Operations, EVS. 

“Food and Nutrition Services is deeply appreciative to be included in the Garden of Appreciation event,” says Anthony Humphrey, MBA, RD, Director, FNS. “While our team is often behind-the-scenes supporting hospital celebrations, being recognized in a moment dedicated specifically to support services is incredibly meaningful. This event makes us feel seen, valued, and truly special. It’s something we have genuinely looked forward to and cherish!” 

'Heart and Soul’ 

“We can’t thank these teams enough for their support of the delivery of patient care," says Terrie Edwards, MHA, FACHE, interim CEO, UVA Health University Medical Center. "They truly are the heart and soul of University Medical Center and they make sure our patients, families, and team members are cared for and supported. Thank you to all these team members for their contributions!”

“As I reflect on the sense of community and celebration across University Medical Center in the past several months, I’m reminded these moments are made possible by the dedication of our EVS, Facilities, FNS, and R&R teams,” says UVA Health University Medical Center Chief Operating Officer Min Lee, MHA, MBA. “Their work is often behind the scenes, and they are rarely able to participate in the very events they help bring to life. The Garden of Appreciation is a small way for us to recognize their contributions, serve them, and create space for them to feel valued and celebrated. I’m continually inspired by their commitment and by the leaders who come together to make this event meaningful.” 

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